The Brainerd Jaycees have calculated the final results from the annual $150,000 Ice Fishing Extravaganza and announce that after 23 years, they have met another milestone, donating more than $3 million to hundreds of Brainerd lakes area charities.

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Within that amount, more than $2.1 million has gone to the event’s primary beneficiary, Confidence Learning Center, an outdoor recreational facility for people with developmental disabilities.

The Extravaganza is planned and executed 100 percent by volunteers. It takes more than nine months planning and 20,000 volunteer hours each year to run what is commonly known as The World’s Largest Charitable Ice Fishing Contest.

The Brainerd Jaycees are a community and leadership development organization for men and women ages 18-40. Founded in 1939 they have grown to more than 180 members in the Brainerd lakes area. Collectively the members of the Brainerd chapter donate more than 30,000 hours and $250,000 to area charities and causes each year.

I've worked at the Brainerd Dispatch with various duties since Dec. 7, 1983. Starting off as an Ad Designer and currently Director of Audience Development. The Dispatch has been an interesting and challenging place to work. I'm fortunate to have made many friends, both co-workers and customers.